Mitsubishi’s new sports sedan may be the enthusiasts’ big bargain when it launches this fall.

For just under $27,000 including freight, the Lancer Ralliart will be one hot ride when it hits showrooms in September.

Even when it is filled to the rim with all add-on goodies the car is big bang for the bucks. A loaded Ralliart comes with Recaro seats, Sirius Satellite Radio, upgraded headlamps and a navigation system, and tops out near $30,000.

A Mitsubishi official confirmed the pricing at a high-speed test drive. While final prices are still yet not cast in stone, the company weighs the impact of fluctuations in the dollar and yen.

The Ralliart is the middle child of the Lancer lineup. It fits above the base model, but is a step below the 291-horsepower Evolution. The Ralliart shares considerable engine and body parts with each.

The Ralliart—so named for the long-standing Japan-market tuner division--gets 237 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque out of its turbocharged 2.0-liter four, and retains some of the driving characteristics of the speedy Evo. Both also share the twin-clutch SST transmission, which comes with paddle shifters. Still, Mitsubishi officials point to the Ralliart and its estimated 17/25 mpg figures as a potential green option for drivers looking for performance.

The Ralliart is expected to make up five to 10 percent of all U.S. Lancer sales. A Mitsubishi official estimates the company will sell 300-350 a month initially.

Meanwhile, Mitsu continues work on its electric vehicle technology, called iMiEV, and says it could be on these shores in a small car.

“I think we’re very serious about the technology,” said Bryan Arnett, product strategy manager for Mitsubishi Motors North America.

Also, the Concept-cX that debuted at the Frankfurt auto show last fall is also being considered for this market, possibly as early as 2010.

via autoweek